"I'm in hell," were my first thoughts of NSO 2004 as I ambled down the walk to the Wanda Wyatt. Dining Hall for registration.

"There's still time to turn back,” I told myself after view- ing the Shiny Happy shep- herds dressed in bright orange, leading rhythmic chants to their equally spirited sheep. I could do a lot with that 50 bucks.

"We've got spirit, yes we do. We've got spirit, how ‘bout you?" A group of people sport- ing banana-yellow handker- chiefs asked in an accusatory manner to their cohorts in sea- blue.

And it would continue... the rhythmic chants almost danc- ing with the pounding in my head as a result of my activi- ties the night before.

"This may be what you need Kim," I told myself, taking a swig of Aqua Fina, making my way to the registration line.

"How are you today?" asked another elated volunteer.

I'm hung-over, I said with an apologetic smile, wishing I could match her level of enthusiasm; as is usually my custom. Instead an uncomfort- able silence ensued as she directed me to where I could

get a bag of free stuff and a free hanky.

So I picked up my bag, my

bandanna and joined my group, where I met people I am really happy to have met including my blue team lead- ers, Amalia, Shaun, John, Aimee and Rachel.

Our first stop of the day was at the Duffy Centre for the Opening Ceremonies of NSO 2K4, where, to the dismay of my extra-sensitive ears and

‘pounding head, really loud

obnoxious music was playing.

I knew that had I not been feel- ing like something the dog threw up, I would really be enjoying myself. I longed to be

one of the masses whose stom-

ach did not feel like it would digest itself. -

And the day continued on Brackley Beach, a lunch of Subway which cured my the flip-flop of my stomach. I also felt better to know there were

_people like myself who did not

have to go bouncing up and down to prove they were excit-

ed about something. I enjoyed |

myself at Brackley Beach with these people. After a sand- sculpturing contest, we layed on the sand and

listened to the sound of the —

Atlantic.

I returned to NSO the’ next

NSO 2K4- First Day

morning, where I again tried to play the role of barking seal, but my enthusiasm could not be charged despite the best efforts of the awesome team leaders.

Unfortunately due to work restraints, I couldn't participate in any other activities, accept for Sue Johansen and the Trews, but I'm sure all of us first-time UPEI- ers were inspired by the obvious

enthusiasm of Ryan McDermott, NSO Coordinator, and his team of

UPEI Cadre September 14, 2004 page 9

noisy recruits.

So, on behalf of all NSO- ers thank you to all the volunteers who made NSO possible. Even though I wasn't the Energizer Bunny, I deeply appreciate your efforts.

So once more- from the bot- tom of my heart.... U-P... E-I! Thanks, guys! Rock on!